Energetic punk and unrestrained badassery have defined Haley Graves’ sound, with tracks like “Pop Punk Princess” and “Concert For The Aliens” establishing her as a Seattle pop-punk force to be reckoned with. But on her latest single, “Over,” Graves delivers something different.
Wrapped in melancholy strings and raw lyricism, “Over” feels like a new beginning. A spoken monologue kicks off the track, setting the stage for the wistful breakup anthem. “I remember it like it was all yesterday,” Graves explains to the listener, “Now I’m confused because we’re over.” “Over” finds its power in restraint; raw emotion propels this track forward, but there is also an element of careful control.
The string accompaniment is what makes this track feel big — sweeping, like a force of nature. The breakup in question is not small or easy, and the betrayal will not be quickly forgotten. These sentiments are perfectly encapsulated by heartwrenching lyrics (“I miss the way you used to say you loved me / That was all before you betrayed me”) and intense undercurrents. The track’s slow and deliberate buildup pays off in its second chorus, where guitar and drums are in full swing, led by Graves’ powerful pop-punk vocals in what feels like an almost triumphant end to a trying journey.
Overall, “Over” gives listeners much to look forward to, delivering fresh sounds, thoughtful lyricism, and exciting new territory for Graves.